Sharing CSIAP Experiences and Best Practices with the IRDCRP at the World Bank

 A special high-level meeting was held today at the World Bank with senior officials of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) and the Integrated Rural Development and Climate Resilience Project (IRDCRP), with the objective of 

• Transferring knowledge and implementation experience gained under the CSIAP to the staff of the Integrated Rural Development and Climate Resilience Project (IRDCRP).
• Handing over key project resources, including technical documents, operational guidelines, manuals, and presentation materials (PPTs) developed under CSIAP.
• Reaching an agreement to provide targeted capacity-building support, including specialised training for IRDCRP staff who require further knowledge and skills in Climate-Smart (CS) approaches and practices.

The meeting was chaired by Mr. Thruni Liyanage, Co–Task Team Leader (Co-TTL) of the CSIAP and the session provided an important platform to reflect on CSIAP’s implementation journey, highlighting how strategic planning, strong institutional coordination, and community engagement have contributed to tangible outcomes on the ground.

 Mr. Frank Jayasinghe, Climate Smart Agriculture Specialist; Mr. U. K. Nissanka, Water Management and Monitoring Specialist; Mr. D. V. Bandulasena, Institutional Development and Capacity Building Specialist; Dr. Kumuduni Gunasekara, Agribusiness and Market Linkage Development Specialist; and Mr. Samantha Mallawaarachchi, Information, Education and Communication (IEC) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Specialist of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) made detailed presentations during the session. Their presentations comprehensively outlined the key interventions, progress achieved, and measurable outcomes of the project across the six provinces where CSIAP is currently being implemented, highlighting sector-specific achievements, lessons learned, and the overall contribution of the project toward strengthening climate-resilient agriculture systems. These presentations demonstrated the project’s comprehensive approach and its alignment with national development priorities and World Bank objectives.

The CSIAP delegation was led by Mr. Saman Bandulasena, who actively participated in discussions, sharing insights on implementation experiences, challenges faced, and innovative solutions adopted during project execution. The IRDCRP, led by Mr. R. H. W. A. Kumarasisri, also took part in the meeting, fostering knowledge exchange and identifying opportunities for synergy between the two projects.

As the implementing agency, officials from the Department of Agrarian Development (DAD) were also present, underscoring their critical role in translating project strategies into field-level action. Their participation reinforced the importance of inter-agency collaboration in achieving sustainable and climate-resilient rural development outcomes. Mr. S. Manoharan, Senior Consultant for Agriculture and Rural Development at the World Bank, also joined the meeting remotely. He previously served as the Task Team Leader (TTL) of the CSIAP.

By Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

From Water Scarcity to Prosperity: A Woman Farmer’s Climate-Smart Success in SP

At just 35 years of age, Ms. H.A. Nadeeka Chathurani, a devoted mother of two children aged 15 and 7, has emerged as a symbol of resilience and determination in Bogahawewa village, under the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division in Hambantota. Like many smallholder farmers in the dry zone, her journey in agriculture was marked by hardship—particularly the persistent lack of water, which threatened both her livelihood and her family’s future.

Woman Farmer Chathurani

Cultivating one acre of land, Chathurani struggled for years to sustain her chili cultivation. Despite repeated efforts and tireless labour, inadequate water supply severely limited her production. Every two weeks, she could harvest only about 300 kg of chilies, an amount barely sufficient to cover household expenses, let alone invest in her children’s education or improve living conditions. For a woman balancing farming with the responsibilities of motherhood, the odds were stacked against her.

A turning point came when Ms. K.A.A. Nuwanthi, the Agriculture Facilitator (AF) of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP), visited Chathurani’s farmland during a routine field inspection. Observing the conditions on-site, Nuwanthi quickly identified the root cause of Chathurani’s low productivity—the urgent need for a reliable and efficient irrigation solution. Recognising the potential of the land and the farmer’s commitment, she promptly referred the matter to the Deputy Project Director’s Office of CSIAP in the Southern and Uva Provinces. 

The response was swift. Soon after, a sprinkler irrigation system was provided to Chathurani, enabling her to manage water more efficiently and cultivate her land sustainably. But the support did not end there. Understanding that technology alone is not enough, Nuwanthi coordinated with Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor, to ensure continuous technical guidance. Under his supervision, Chathurani actively participated in Farmer Business School (FBS) and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) training programmes. These covered a wide range of practical skills, including organic fertilizer production, fruit plant pruning, bund cultivation, and improved vegetable cultivation and management practices. Armed with new knowledge, confidence, and the right equipment, she was ready to begin again—this time with renewed hope.

AF Nuwanthi with Chathurani

The results were nothing short of remarkable. Chathurani’s chilli production doubled, with harvests increasing from 300 kgs to 600 kgs every two weeks within the same cultivation cycle. Her income rose accordingly, bringing much-needed financial stability to her household. Today, she can comfortably invest in her children’s education, ensuring they have opportunities she once feared she could not provide. Looking ahead, she is even planning to build a new house, a dream that once seemed far beyond reach.

Chathurani’s story is a powerful reminder of how targeted interventions, timely technical support, and climate-smart solutions can transform lives. It also highlights the strength of women farmers who, when given the right support, rise above challenges to secure a better future for their families. Above all, her journey stands as a testament to the impact of the CSIAP—where courage meets opportunity, and determination turns struggle into success.

The CSIAP Records Outstanding Performance Delivering Strong Results by 3Q 2025

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) has made substantial progress toward achieving its Project Development Objective, with most Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) nearing or exceeding expected targets by the end of the third quarter of 2025. Overall performance reflects strong physical implementation, meaningful beneficiary outreach, and measurable improvements in climate-smart agricultural productivity, despite some delays in financial disbursements.

Achievement of Key Performance Indicators
At the time of reporting, the project’s performance indicators demonstrate significant improvement over baseline values. Cropping intensity has reached 150%, surpassing the project target of 135% and improving markedly from the baseline of 110%. This indicates more effective utilization of cultivated land and enhanced productivity through improved irrigation and agronomic practices.

Cropping diversity has also shown remarkable progress. During the most recent Yala season, cropping diversity reached 49.7%, compared to a baseline of 10 percent and very close to the project target of 50%. This improvement reflects successful promotion of diversified cropping systems, contributing to climate resilience and income stability for farmers.

The target area under improved Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices is 55,000 hectares. As of the end of the third quarter of 2025, approximately 35,000 hectares have been brought under improved CSA interventions, demonstrating steady progress toward the final target.

The number of direct beneficiaries reached by the project stands at 367,491, which is close to the end-of-project target of 470,000 beneficiaries. Of this total, 161,907 beneficiaries are women, highlighting the project’s strong emphasis on gender inclusion and women’s participation in agriculture-based livelihoods.

Financial and Physical Progress
The annual government budget allocation for the year 2025 amounted to LKR 8,775 million. An action plan was developed in line with this allocation; however, by the end of the third quarter, only LKR 2,893.99 million had been spent on project activities. As a result, cumulative financial expenditure reached LKR 27,009.13 million, equivalent to USD 90.03 million (at an exchange rate of USD 1 = LKR 300), reflecting an overall financial progress of 76%. 

In contrast, cumulative physical progress of the project reached 90 percent by the end of the third quarter. The observed gap between physical and financial progress is mainly attributed to delays in the submission of bills by contractors for completed works and delays in bill certification processes in certain instances. These issues have been recognized, and measures are being taken to expedite financial disbursements.

Irrigation Rehabilitation and Water Management
Rehabilitation of irrigation systems has progressed well across project areas. Under Phase I, out of the agreed 476 tanks to be rehabilitated within 72 cascades, 465 tanks have been successfully completed. Under Phase II, 179 irrigation systems were initially identified for rehabilitation; however, two tanks were cancelled due to implementation issues. As a result, 177 tanks are currently under rehabilitation, with approximately 20 tanks already completed.

Under the water management component, water use efficiency has been piloted in 50 tanks across cultivation seasons. For the 2025 Yala season, the average water use efficiency increase for paddy cultivation was measured at 38.6 percent, exceeding the project’s expected improvement of 30 percent. This demonstrates the effectiveness of improved water management practices introduced by the project.

Support to Farmers and CSA Interventions
The project continues to support beneficiaries through micro-irrigation systems and agro-well rehabilitation. To date, 1,331 agro-wells have been renovated out of a target of 1,475 wells. Under Phase II, 196 agro-wells are under implementation out of the 211 identified. These agro-wells support the cultivation of vegetables, green chilies, onions, and other Other Field Crops (OFCs).

Approximately 66,000 beneficiaries have received agricultural assets and services. Extensive farmer training programs on CSA practices have been conducted across six provinces. Under CSA interventions such as micro-irrigation, home gardening, agronomic improvements, inter-season cultivation, seed production, and organic manure production, a total of 100,198 farmers have participated in 3,291 training programs.

Farmers using micro-irrigation systems primarily cultivate onions, green chilies, and vegetables, while inter-season cultivation activities focus mainly on green gram and other OFCs. Compost production activities have progressed well, achieving 42,390 metric tons out of the target of 45,000 metric tons, with most compost used for home gardening.

Capacity Building and Institutional Strengthening
Training on CSA practices at the Thirappane Farmer Training School has been conducted as planned. By the end of the third quarter, 2,946 lead farmers and trainers participated in 131 training programs. These trained individuals are expected to transfer knowledge and skills to peer farmers within their communities.

The Farm Business School (FBS) program has been instrumental in developing entrepreneurial and managerial capacities among farmers, transitioning them from subsistence farming to market-oriented, climate-smart agriculture. A total of 159 trainers, including Agriculture Instructors and Agriculture Facilitators, completed training across 12 FBS modules. These trainers have begun disseminating knowledge to approximately 15,000 farmers in hotspot areas. To date, 11,335 farmers have completed all 12 modules, while an additional 1,200 farmers are currently undergoing training.

Sustainability, Market Linkages, and Community Institutions
To ensure sustainability of project interventions, 544 Farmer Producer Societies and 45 Farmer Producer Associations have been established. These institutions facilitate collective marketing, enhance bargaining power, and improve market access for farmers. So far, around 43 market linkages have been successfully established.

For effective operation and maintenance of irrigation systems, 60 Cascade Management Committees (CMCs) have been formed. Of these, 59 cascade management plans have been completed, and implementation has begun on 141 identified activities, including 32 tree planting initiatives and 109 construction activities. Farmer organizations have also received training on cascade management, leadership, bookkeeping, and water management.

The project supported the establishment of solar-powered seasonal electric fences to protect crops, completing 765 kilometers of fencing, with an additional 1,000 kilometers currently under progress for the upcoming Maha season.

Environmental, Social, and Technological Interventions
Tree planting campaigns have been conducted to improve catchment areas through reforestation, agroforestry, wind barriers, Kattakaduwa development, and compensatory planting. Social safeguard and gender-related training programs are ongoing, while the grievance redress mechanism is functioning effectively, with all reported grievances addressed.

Laser land leveling has been introduced to improve water-use efficiency and paddy productivity, covering 21 hectares to date. Two laser leveling machines have been procured and distributed to the North Western Province and Northern Province Departments of Agriculture. Additionally, initial steps have been completed to establish a Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Unit within the Ministry.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Communication
Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities and ICT initiatives are progressing well, with approximately 2,350 IEC programs conducted across various subject areas. Five social media platforms are actively maintained to disseminate project information. Data entry into the Management Information System (MIS) has reached approximately 95% completion.

Monitoring and evaluation activities are ongoing, including the development of a farmer-level database, which is now at its final stage under the guidance of a database management consultant. An independent outcome survey has been conducted using university undergraduates as enumerators, with analysis and reporting currently underway. Preparation of the Borrower’s Implementation Completion Report has also commenced through an independent consultancy firm.

Governance, Supervision, and Reporting
Project implementation is regularly reviewed through progress review meetings, National Steering Committee (NSC) meetings, and Provincial Steering Committee meetings. World Bank supervision missions are conducted regularly, with 14 missions completed to date. To expedite fund disbursement by the end of December 2025, special weekly virtual progress review sessions have been scheduled with the World Bank team, in addition to bi-monthly reviews by the project team, routine field supervision, and quarterly and annual reporting to stakeholders.

Written by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC & ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP
Data provided by Asoka Koralage, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, PMU, CSIAP

Shielding Crops, Empowering Farmers: CSIAP's II Phase of Electric Fencing in EP

Farmers receive electric fencing equipment from the project

 

The Deputy Project Director’s Office of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) has successfully rolled out its Phase 2 seasonal electric fencing programme in the Eastern Province, covering seven Agrarian Service Centre (ASC) divisions. The initiative aims to protect farmers’ crops from wildlife incursions, ensuring both productivity and sustainability in the province.

Mr. Sekeran addresses the beneficiary farmers

As part of this phase, a total of 79 electric fences spanning 467 km are being installed across Trincomalee, Batticaloa, and Ampara districts. These fences are set to directly benefit 6,532 farmers and safeguard 9,440 acres of farmland, creating secure boundaries against wild animals that frequently damage crops during planting and harvesting seasons.

• In Trincomalee District, three ASCs—Pulmoddai, Padavisripura, and Pankulam—received 22 fences covering 104 km, protecting the farms of 1,325 farmers over 3,715 acres. Pulmoddai accounted for the largest share with 16 fences spanning 75 km, benefiting more than 1,000 farmers. 
• In Batticaloa District, the Aithiyamalai ASC saw a smaller-scale intervention, with a single 10 km fence protecting 92 farmers across 290 acres.
• Ampara District emerged as the most extensive beneficiary, across three ASCs—Komari, Thambiluvil, and Lahugala—a total of 56 fences covering 353 km protected 5,115 farmers and 5,435 acres of farmland. Thambiluvil ASC stood out with 12 fences safeguarding 3,412 farmers, highlighting the programme’s strategic focus on areas most vulnerable to wildlife incursions.

The overall implementation and coordination of the programme are overseen by Mr. T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer, under the strategic guidance and supervision of Mr. S. Naveendradas, Deputy Project Director for the Eastern Province.

During the electric fencing distribution programme, Mr. Sekaran emphasised that the seasonal fencing initiative is a key part of CSIAP’s broader efforts to enhance food security, promote sustainable farming practices, and strengthen farmer livelihoods across the province. By reducing the risk of wildlife damage, the programme allows farmers to concentrate on adopting climate-smart agricultural practices, boosting confidence and long-term resilience in their farming operations.

CSIAP Transforms a Father–Son Farming Partnership into a Thriving Enterprise

 Chaminda, a proud and happy farmer today 

Gunapala is climbing the coconut tree for treacle

At the ground level, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) works tirelessly to uplift farmers’ living standards while strengthening their contribution to the national agricultural economy.  An inspiring example of this commitment can be found in Gonapattiya village under the Yodhakandiya Agrarian Service Centre Division in Hambantota, where a determined father–son duo has rewritten their farming story with timely support from the project.

Mr. W. G. Gunapala (age 72) and his son, Mr. W. G. Chaminda Pushpakumara (age 53), have spent decades connected to agriculture. Cultivating 2.5 acres of paddy land and 7 acres of highland, they possessed the land and the will to succeed—but not the means. Persistent challenges such as water scarcity, lack of modern equipment, limited inputs, and inadequate technical guidance kept their efforts from bearing fruit. Despite their commitment, success remained elusive.

The turning point came when Ms. Pathumi Dissanayake, Agriculture Facilitator for the Southern Province under the CSIAP, identified their situation. Understanding both their constraints and potential, she took prompt initiative to address the key barriers holding them back. Through field visits and close discussions with the farmers, she assessed their needs and explored ways CSIAP could provide meaningful support. She then formally forwarded these requirements to the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP for the Southern and Uva Provinces. 

Bottles of treacle produced for the market

Under the direct supervision of Mr. D. M. L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP in the Southern and Uva Provinces, Pathumi Dissanayake carried out her work diligently at the field level, ensuring that farmers' needs were accurately identified and effectively addressed through timely coordination, guidance, and continuous follow-up. 

As a result of these coordinated efforts, the farmers received a solar-powered water pump—an intervention that directly addressed their most critical challenge: water scarcity. Along with the pump, they were provided with quality groundnut and green gram seeds to diversify and strengthen their cultivation. To ensure sustainability, Pathumi further coordinated with Mr. Indika Srilal, Agriculture Instructor at Yodhakandiya, who delivered continuous technical guidance, on-site advice and Climate Smart Agriculture Training. Together, their dedicated support created a strong foundation for the farmers to move forward with confidence.

Fully equipped and empowered, Gunapala and  Chaminda resumed cultivation with renewed determination. Paddy cultivation flourished with the reliable water supply, while the highland fields soon came alive with tomatoes, long beans, chillies, green gram, and groundnuts. With water scarcity no longer a constraint, productivity increased steadily, and diversification became possible.

Pathumi with Chaminda at his husbandry unit

Encouraged by their success, both father and son expanded into new ventures, including animal husbandry as a business initiative and the production of coconut treacle, further strengthening their household income. These multiple income streams have gradually elevated their quality of life.

Today, the impact of the CSIAP support is visible not only in their fields but also in their home. With earnings from agriculture, Mr. Chaminda has begun constructing his own house and has been able to financially support his child’s university education—an achievement that reflects both economic stability and social progress.

Gunapala and Chaminda now enjoy a dignified and improved lifestyle, built on resilience, hard work, and well-targeted assistance. Their journey stands as a powerful testament to how climate-smart interventions, dedicated field-level guidance, and farmer-focused support under the CSIAP can open a new era of opportunity for rural farming families—turning long-held aspirations into lasting achievements.

CSIAP Empowers a Determined Woman Farmer to Achieve Agricultural Success

At the ground level, the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) places strong emphasis on empowering women farmers who are striving to stand on their own feet with confidence and determination. One such inspiring success story is that of Ms. A. L. Deepa Kumari (age 50), a resident of the Dewramvehera Grama Niladhari Division under the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division in Hambantota.

Farmer Deepa Kumari

Driven by a strong ambition to improve her livelihood through agriculture, Ms. Deepa Kumari was determined to succeed despite facing significant constraints, particularly limited access to resources and technical guidance. Recognising her potential and commitment, the CSIAP stepped in to support her journey towards sustainable farming.

On behalf of the project, Ms. K. A. A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator at the Weerawila Agrarian Service Centre Division, carefully assessed Ms. Deepa Kumari’s needs and initiated timely interventions. Through coordination with the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP for the Southern and Uva Provinces, a solar-powered water pump was provided to address the critical issue of water scarcity, enabling uninterrupted cultivation. In addition, Ms. Nuwanthi took the initiative to coordinate with Mr. H. J. A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor in the Mattala area, to ensure that Ms. Deepa Kumari received continuous technical guidance and advisory support.  

Mr. Malak and Ms. Nuwanthi with the farmer

Further strengthening her capacity, Ms. Deepa Kumari actively participated in CSIAP-supported training programmes, including the Farmer Business School (FBS) and Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) training. These programmes enhanced her knowledge on farm planning, cost management, market-oriented production, and climate-resilient farming techniques, enabling her to manage agriculture as a viable and sustainable enterprise rather than a subsistence activity.

With consistent support and close supervision provided by both Ms. Nuwanthi and Mr. Malaka, Ms. Deepa Kumari commenced cultivation six months ago, planting tomato on one acre and long beans on another acre. Her dedication, combined with timely project assistance, led to remarkable results. At harvest, she recorded an impressive yield of approximately 15,000 kg of tomatoes and 5,000 kg of long beans. 

Tomatoes grown successfully

Ms. Deepa Kumari’s success clearly illustrates the transformative impact of the CSIAP’s farmer-centred approach. Through targeted infrastructure support, continuous technical guidance, and practical capacity-building initiatives, the project is enabling women farmers to overcome barriers, enhance productivity, and build climate-resilient livelihoods. Her story stands as a strong testament to how well-planned interventions under the CSIAP can convert determination and ambition into lasting agricultural success, while promoting inclusive and sustainable rural development.

Notably, this success also underscores the CSIAP’s emphasis on women’s empowerment. By creating inclusive opportunities for women farmers to access training, inputs, and decision-making platforms, the project has strengthened their confidence and leadership in agriculture. These interventions have enabled women to move beyond subsistence farming toward sustainable, income-generating livelihoods.

This success story clearly demonstrates how targeted interventions, technical guidance, and farmer-focused capacity building under the CSIAP can transform ambition into achievement, empowering farmers—especially women—to build resilient livelihoods through climate-smart agriculture. 

Electric Fencing Enhances Crop Protection and Productivity in Mullaitivu, NP

In a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity and safeguarding farmlands from damage caused by wild animals, the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) in the Northern Province has commenced the provision of electric fencing systems to farming communities in the Mullaitivu District under Phase II of the Project.

Under this initiative, a total of 46 electric fences covering an aggregate length of 173 kilometers have been installed across selected cultivation areas. The intervention is aimed at minimizing crop losses caused by wild animals—particularly elephants and other wildlife—thereby ensuring improved crop security, reduced economic losses, and enhanced confidence among around 3000 farmer families to continue and expand their cultivation activities.

ESO Kesiga looking after the needs of farmers

The electric fencing programme is being implemented in five Agrarian Service Centre (ASC) Divisions within Mullaitivu District where CSIAP interventions are ongoing. These include Thunukkai ASC Division, where nine (09) electric fences have been established; Mulliyawalai ASC Division, with three (03) electric fences; Olumadu ASC Division, with two (02) electric fences; Puthukkudiyiruppu ASC Division, also with two (02) electric fences; and Oddusuddan ASC Division, which has received the highest allocation of thirty (30) electric fences in view of the severity and frequency of wildlife-related crop damages reported from the area.

This targeted deployment reflects the Project’s commitment to addressing location-specific challenges faced by farmers, while adopting climate-smart and environmentally responsible solutions. The electric fences not only protect standing crops but also contribute to reducing human–wildlife conflict, thereby promoting safer and more sustainable coexistence between agricultural activities and surrounding ecosystems.

Providing additional guidance after installing the electric fence

At the ground level, the successful implementation of the electric fencing programme in the Mullaitivu District is being driven by the dedicated coordination, close supervision, and continuous guidance provided by Ms. S. Kesiga, Environmental Safeguard Officer under the overall direction and strategic oversight of Mr. George Babu, Deputy Project Director of the CSIAP for the Northern Province. Playing a pivotal role in translating project objectives into practical action, Ms. Kesiga worked closely with farmers, local institutions, and implementing agencies to ensure that the fencing installations are carried out efficiently,  and her regular field visits and active engagement with beneficiary communities help address ground realities, resolve operational challenges, and ensure that the electric fences function effectively as a sustainable solution to human–wildlife conflict. Both Mr. Babu's and Ms. Kesiga's leadership has ensured that installations are carried out in compliance with environmental and safety standards, while also raising awareness among beneficiary communities on proper operation and maintenance of the fencing systems. 

The electric fencing initiative forms part of the CSIAP’s broader strategy to strengthen climate resilience, protect agricultural investments, and improve livelihoods in vulnerable areas. By safeguarding crops and reducing uncertainties associated with wildlife damage, the Project continues to empower farmers in the Northern Province to pursue sustainable and productive agriculture with renewed confidence.  

How CSIAP Empowered Farmer Dharmasena to Transform Red Onion Cultivation

Freshly harvested Red Onions ready for the market

Farmer P.A.K. Dharmasena (age 65), from Weeravil Ara under the Weerawila Agrarian Centre Division in Hambantota, has emerged as a shining example of how targeted support, modern technology, and proper guidance can transform a farmer’s livelihood. Today, he stands as a successful red onion cultivator—but his journey began with uncertainty and struggle. For years, Dharmasena faced difficulties obtaining quality agricultural inputs, reliable irrigation solutions, and the technical know-how required to cultivate red onions successfully. With limited resources and guidance, expanding his farming potential felt nearly impossible. It was during this challenging period that the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) stepped in, opening a new chapter in his farming journey.  

AF Nuwanthi with Farmer Dharmasena

Recognising his determination, the CSIAP provided a comprehensive package of support that included a solar pump, insect-proof net, and a sprinkler irrigation system—critical interventions that enabled him to manage water efficiently and protect his crops. Additionally, the project supplied him with adequate red onion bulbs to cultivate one acre, ensuring he had the right starting materials for a productive season. Beyond physical inputs, the CSIAP empowered Dharmasena with knowledge. He underwent specialized training in Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices as well as the Farmer Business School (FBS) programme at the Climate Smart Garme Training School in Thirappane, equipping him with skills not only to cultivate but also to manage his farm as a sustainable business. 

A handful of large Red Onions

Technical assistance played a key role in his success. Through Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor in the Mattala area, the project provided him with continuous guidance, including technical guidelines, FBS training, and nursery management techniques. This close support ensured that Dharmasena could apply CSA methods effectively throughout his cropping cycle. At the ground level, Ms. K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator at the Weerawila Agrarian Centre Division, was instrumental in identifying Dharmasena’s needs and coordinating with the CSIAP’s SP & UP Office. Under the direction of Mr. D.M.L. Bandaranayake, Deputy Project Director, and the supervision of Mr. S. Periyasamy, Climate Smart Agriculture Specialist, she provided hands-on assistance whenever the farmer required guidance or problem-solving support.

With new tools, training, and confidence, Dharmasena began cultivating his one-acre plot. Weeks of dedicated effort and adherence to CSA techniques paid off—he successfully harvested 12,000 kg of red onion, a milestone that reflected not only his commitment but also the impact of CSIAP’s timely intervention. Today, Farmer Dharmasena stands as a success story and an inspiration for other farmers in the region. His journey demonstrates how access to modern agricultural technologies, targeted training, and consistent field-level support can uplift rural livelihoods and contribute to national food security. Through CSIAP’s holistic support, a struggling farmer rose to success—proving once again that empowered farmers can transform communities.

A Special Meeting on Flood Damages and Recovery Plan of CSIAP at WTI

Mr. Bandulasena delivering his address at the event

A special meeting on the Flood Damages and Recovery Plan of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced this morning at the Wayamba Training Institute, Wariyapola, under the patronage of Mr. Saman Bandulasena, Project Director of the CSIAP, with the participation of Mr. S. Manoharan, Senior Consultant for Agriculture and Rural Development of the World Bank. The meeting was convened in view of the recent floods that caused widespread damage to agricultural infrastructure and farmlands in project areas. Addressing the gathering, Project Director Mr. Bandulasena explained the critical importance of conducting a comprehensive Flood Damage and Recovery Plan to ensure a well-coordinated and timely response. He emphasized that the plan would guide the systematic restoration of damaged irrigation systems, improve disaster preparedness, and protect the livelihoods of farming communities that have been severely affected by the adverse weather conditions.

Mr. Manoharan addressing participants during the meeting

The World Bank Consultant Mr. S. Manoharan highlighted the importance of accurate data collection and detailed field-level damage assessments. He stressed that special attention must be given to assessing damages to tanks, anicuts, agricultural roads, and agro-wells, as these are vital infrastructure components that support irrigation and agricultural productivity. He further noted that reliable data would help in prioritizing interventions, mobilizing resources effectively, and ensuring transparency and accountability in the recovery process. The meeting was attended by Deputy Directors representing the Project Management Unit and Provincial Offices, along with subject specialists and  officers. Participants actively engaged in discussions on assessment methodologies, reporting mechanisms, and coordinated action plans. They also shared preliminary field observations and proposed immediate steps to carry out rapid damage surveys in the most affected areas.

The special session concluded with a collective commitment to expedite field inspections, strengthen inter-agency coordination, and finalize a structured Flood Damage and Recovery Plan, aiming to restore agricultural infrastructure swiftly and enhance the resilience of farming communities under the CSIAP framework.

The Wrap-Up Meeting of CSIAP Commences at the DER with World Bank Officials

The wrap-up meeting of the World Bank–funded Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP) commenced today (3rd) at the Department of External Resources (DER), bringing together senior representatives from the World Bank, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation, Department of National Planning, Department of Project Management and Monitoring, and the CSIAP’s Project Management Unit. This meeting marks the conclusion of the final Implementation Support Mission (ISM) of CSIAP, conducted from October 26 to November 10, 2025.

Chaired by Mr. Dammika Premarathna, Additional Director General of the DER, the session focused on reviewing the mission’s key findings and recommendations. It was highlighted that CSIAP underwent four restructurings between 2019 and 2025 to address the unforeseen national challenges that emerged during project implementation. Despite these complexities, the Project Development Objective (PDO) achievements and the performance across all four project components have been rated Satisfactory by the World Bank.

The Project Director, Mr. Saman Bandulasena, was advised to take all necessary measures to complete the remaining activities before December 31, 2025, the officially agreed project closing date. The grace period for financial and administrative closure will continue until April 30, 2026. The wrap-up meeting reaffirmed the collaborative efforts of all institutions involved and underscored the importance of consolidating the project’s achievements for long-term sustainability in climate-resilient agriculture.

CSIAP Acts Swiftly to Restore Livelihoods of Farmers Devastated by Severe Weather

Damages caused to the project areas

The Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP)  has initiated a comprehensive damage assessment to fully understand the impact of the recent severe weather conditions that affected the areas where the CSIAP is being implemented. This investigation covers an extensive range of areas, including farmlands, standing and newly planted crops, vital agricultural inputs, minor and major anicuts, agricultural access roads, agro-wells, water distribution channels,  and tanks. Staff from the Provincial Deputy Project Director's Office, led by the Deputy Project Directors of each province, are  conducting systematic inspections to document the extent of losses with accuracy and transparency. The assessment process also includes gathering photographic evidence, geo-tagging affected sites, and collecting testimonies from farmers to ensure that even the most remote and vulnerable communities are accounted for.   

In order to respond swiftly to the urgent needs of farmers, the CSIAP has already planned an initial support package aimed at helping affected families restart cultivation without delay. As part of this measure, the project will distribute essential seeds—such as paddy, vegetable, and other priority crops—so that farmers can resume production in line with the national cultivation calendar. This intervention plays a critical role in sustaining the country’s food supply chain, especially during a period when disruptions in production could create shortages and further strain household food availability. By supporting farmers at the earliest stage, CSIAP aims to reduce the financial burden on rural families, restore agricultural activity, and stabilise local markets. 

Following the completion of the detailed investigation, the CSIAP will move into a rapid response and rehabilitation phase. This will involve immediate actions to repair and restore damaged irrigation structures, including strengthening or reconstructing anicuts, clearing and reshaping water channels, and ensuring that tanks are desilted and made fully functional to support upcoming cultivation seasons. Rehabilitation of agricultural access roads will be prioritised to maintain connectivity between farms, villages, and markets, enabling farmers to transport inputs and sell their produce without disruptions. 

Special attention will be given to households that have been severely affected by flooding, landslides, and prolonged heavy rainfall. CSIAP will coordinate with local government institutions and disaster management agencies to provide targeted assistance to uplift the living standards of these families. This may include support for restoring home gardens, replacing damaged tools and inputs, and ensuring that communities receive the necessary technical guidance to recover quickly and sustainably.